The municipality of Ixelles officially launched the 'Alliance for Porte de Namur' on Friday to revitalise and enhance the attractiveness of the neighbourhood.
The councillor for Urban Planning, Julie de Groote, promises significant transformations in the area over the coming years, highlighting the scale of ongoing urban projects.
Various permits are being processed, including facade renovations and building conversions into hotels, housing, or businesses. "The simultaneous processing of these permits offers a unique opportunity to reshape Porte de Namur," she said.
The Alliance is a structural partnership between public authorities, property owners, investors, and local operators.
The project relies on a coordinated methodology centred around seven key aspects: regulation of signs through a zoned municipal town planning regulation, creation of spaces for bicycle couriers, enhancement of commercial diversity, addressing empty units, promoting housing above shops, activation of secondary facades, and support for temporary occupations with social or artistic purposes.
Mayor Romain De Reusme believes Porte de Namur deserves a coherent vision matching its potential. For Gautier Calomne, the councillor for Commerce, the project is a starting point: "This collective and effective approach could inspire other commercial areas in Ixelles."
A dedicated digital platform, MaPortedeNamur.be, is in development. It will feature local businesses and their opening hours, improving the visibility of local actors.
